Best states to vacation in summer
American summers are known to be hot and the perfect time to take vacations. Some people prefer islands and can’t wait for the summer heat to head there while others want to cool down and go on a trip to the mountains. No matter where you decide to go, it’s important to consider the states that have less rain in summer. The US has a big variety of climates and rainfalls from state to state. Here are my top picks of best vacation states during summer.
It’s summer time! Whether you’re on vacation or escaping the sweltering heat of the city, it’s nice to get away for a bit. You say you’re curious about the best states to go to for your next break? We compiled a list of our favorites based on location and activities.
The warm weather promises to draw in vacations and holiday outings, especially in the summer. Families are eager to vacation and sightseeing is top on their list, as they hop across state lines in the quest for fun. The prospect of hitting the highways, byways, and interstates with family members can often mean an array of awesome memories. But what states are most apt to provide such memories? That all depends on how you feel about glamping in a yurt, following an Ozark trail into Arkansas, or sleeping under the stars (with or without a tent) in the Rockies.
Summer is the perfect time of year to spend some time in a state you’ve never been to before. If you’re looking for somewhere to go, here are the top 5 states to vacation in summertime!
1) Colorado: Colorado has mountains, rivers and lakes that are perfect for swimming and boating. There are also plenty of hiking trails, museums and historic sites to explore.
2) New York: New York is home to some of the best art museums in the country! If you love art, this is definitely the place for you! You’ll also find plenty of great restaurants, bars and clubs around town.
3) California: California is known for its amazing weather and beautiful beaches as well as its rich history which includes gold rush era towns like San Francisco where people still live today!
4) Florida: Florida has beautiful beaches with clear waters so it’s perfect if you want an escape from crowds while still having access to public spaces like museums or parks where kids can play while adults relax on their own time schedule during the day then hit up nightlife spots after sunset when everyone else leaves town earlier than they do
If you’re looking for a summer vacation that’s both fun and relaxing, you’re in luck. There are so many great places to go—from sunny beaches to mountain retreats—and so many ways to enjoy them.
If you’re looking for a sunny beach vacation this summer, consider visiting one of these states:
- South Carolina: With its beautiful beaches and warm weather, South Carolina is one of the best states for beach vacations. You can also check out Charleston, which has been named one of America’s best cities by Conde Nast Traveler.
- Florida: Florida is another popular destination for beach-goers, with plenty of options for family vacations as well as romantic getaways for couples. The sunshine here is legendary!
- California: California has some truly spectacular beaches on the West Coast that are perfect for summertime fun in the sun. You’ll also find plenty of amazing hiking trails if you want to get away from the crowds (or just need something active).
Key West, Florida
While the weather in Key West will be quite warm, the sea breezes help temper the heat and a wealth of activities can be enjoyed out on the water, including sunset cruises. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is a National Historic Landmark that also provides some of the clearest blue waters around for snorkeling and diving. The beach at its southern end is a favorite and also offers fishing, paddling, and picnicking. Of course, on famous Duval Street, you’ll find plenty of bars for a fun night out too.
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Asheville, North Carolina
There are many ways to enjoy a romantic escape in Asheville. It’s famous for its breweries and farm-to-table eateries as well as the awe-inspiring mountain scenery. It’s also home to one of America’s only castles, Biltmore Estate, which is open for tours and even has a winery you can visit. There are spas that offer couples’ massage, endless opportunities for romantic hikes, and even a bean-to-bar chocolate factory where you can watch how it’s made and enjoy samples in the tasting room.
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San Francisco, California
The options for romantic experiences are nearly endless in San Francisco. You might walk or bike the 1.7-mile span of the Golden Gate Bridge, take a selfie of it in the background from Baker Beach and enjoy strolls in beautiful Golden Gate Park. The park is home to some of the city’s most popular attractions, including the California Academy of Sciences, named one of the “New Wonders of the World” by Conde Nast Traveler. It includes an aquarium, the world’s largest planetarium, a four-story rainforest with an incredible coral reef ecosystem, a natural history museum, and more. Of course, you’ll find some of the most mouthwatering cuisine, with restaurants serving everything from favorites like clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl to 5-star candlelit fine dining.
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Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai is arguably the most romantic of the Hawaiian islands with its more tranquil feel and plenty of places where you can be immersed in breathtaking beauty all to yourselves. Known as the “Garden Isle,” it boasts several botanical gardens, rushing rivers, and waterfalls that spill to serene pools for secluded dips. The adventurous can hike the famous Na Pali Coast, or take in an aerial view via a flightseeing tour. There are countless gorgeous beaches, luxurious resorts, and enticing restaurants too.
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Mendocino, California
Mendocino is a seaside Victorian village about three hours north of San Francisco along a rugged stretch of coast. It sits atop cliffs that jut out into the Pacific, providing jaw-dropping ocean views and the chance to spend your days exploring the beaches, hiking through redwood forests, and perhaps enjoying wine tasting and touring with many wineries throughout the area. Just north you’ll find the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens sprawled across 47 oceanfront acres. A path meanders through beautiful blooms, leading to a park bench at the edge of the cliff, a perfect spot to cozy up together and enjoy the view. Wandering through town is enjoyable with the historic saltbox homes lining the streets, along with plenty of shops, galleries, and restaurants.
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Port Townsend, Washington
Located at the tip of the Olympic Peninsula, Port Townsend is surrounded by water on three sides and backed by the Olympic Mountain Range. On a clear day, both Mount Rainier and Mount Baker come into view. It’s hard to beat its magnificent beauty and its historic streets with grand Victorian buildings that house trendy cafes, enticing restaurants, wine bars, shops, galleries, and museums. Just two miles from downtown, Fort Worden State Park is an ideal place for a picnic and offers beaches to comb, a lighthouse, and kayak rentals if you want to paddle among marine life like seals, dolphins, and otters. There are also many historic structures from the park’s days as a military fort too. The Commanding Officer’s Quarters is filled with late Victorian-era furnishings and can be toured for a glimpse into the life of an officer and his family.